Keeping up with the crowd was nigh impossible. Juke was saintly enough to wait for me, but I could tell by how he clicked his tongue that he was getting annoyed. Or was he getting anxious? I couldn't tell.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWwwaPYIXtc
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡo722MBoqB0
We arrived at the third floor. Another duo split off and the rest of us ascended. My poor stamina gave me difficulty, but I was riding a wave of adrenaline and anticipation I'd never felt before. Each step came and went without me realizing it, and soon enough, the floors whizzed by like a faint image. It was not until the seventh floor that I acknowledged what I saw again.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ66oIJzua4e
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡq7dMEY3Ui0
As it had gone since this started, I arrived last in the room, taking a moment to pant and catch my breath. The floor this time didn't have a straight shot from the entrance to the exit. It resembled the first floor more than anything: a large surface area with a foyer-like zone and branching paths, its size made possible only because there was no hallway transitioning from the stairs.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcKpRlJosTd
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡR8x0n6Xqrk
What was truly worrisome, though, was the lack of Bringers.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmpzWtRupEn
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkrSdGtoCq2
Though the floors flashed by, I never failed to keep my eye on the danger that resided in them. Not seeing them right away immediately put me on edge, and judging from the sluggish pace of everyone else, I wasn't alone. The crowd practically prowled the room. Some even checked behind furniture.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNiYfXYuAyp
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWzyaTv0joj
A minute passed, and the foyer was pronounced empty. The crowd left the zone, but I had to shoot one last scanning glance before I followed. They all moved to the left, and moving in tow, I turned the corner.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2ZtuMxVsAE
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡT85DcJYiys
Though the entrance was similar to the first floor's, the primary chamber was different. Instead of a bulk surrounded by a circling hallway, it was four evenly spaced booths, forming a diamond, on a carpeted floor. The exit was placed stiffly by the topmost box. I noticed it before anyone else, but I was too nervous to point it out. It barely mattered since Pars noted it just a second later.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhsbf8dmVWh
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhMOoMcGtyO
"Exit's here! Let's roll!"262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnmYjqXSPWE
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbffc67L1UO
I had a perfect line of sight from where I stood. Pars' forge ahead, and the sudden figure that sprung from a blindspot.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmXGF4i7x6t
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLhAi2c4R1b
Everyone was caught off guard. The figure wore a familiar robe, one I loathed to see. Pars managed to block his leap, but the man had a cylinder resting on his shoulder. He pointed it at him and–262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5rgl3yt9k9
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqrV36p65WY
**BOOM**262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5xuDTIYbmk
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0UxfvtVXGI
A cloud of debris burst throughout the room. I closed my eyes in the nick of time, but the dust pricked and pinched at my skin. At least, it felt that way at first, until the squeezes transformed into burns.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡP3y2gnL8qE
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZMkV21H0zL
"Ack!"262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuAM2BydFv6
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKa8d7y1niS
I brushed my skin with my hands but it was futile with how thick the cloud was. Too afraid to open my eyes, I moved my feet backward until I collided with something. My back hit the wall, I fell to the ground, and only then did I work up the nerve to see.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGhBNNBhSUI
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ42zPzME21i
The room was a catastrophe.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡouNYHfaPY9
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhFB91y3bsW
Bodies littered the floor like wilting flowers. The warriors still moved and breathed but they writhed and gasped, clawing at their faces and limbs. The dust cloud was fortunately settling, and in the midst of nigh-cadavers was the robed man, lying on the ground.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1RRkwSEGlT
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhlDP2zkD3n
Pars was on him. His coat was seared and his face was scratched, but he still brought down punches as if he suffered no injuries. After a few to the face, the man blocked one and shoved Pars off his body. He got up to the ground fast and assumed a fighting stance.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡO80mbiEErG
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1JT9yH8jQR
"Everyone," he shouted, "if you can see, help the blinded! Get a move on!"262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3PW0HfE4dq
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4tQxR8vI8K
Through the pressure of the situation, his commanding words resonated with the crowd. People followed his orders to a tee; everyone but me. I stood there, not from terror, but indecision.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1Zb6tfQPa3
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡU7ZTWg7ieD
I was behind the robed man. His backside was perfectly exposed. I was stuck between running or sneaking in a strike. But, once the two started exchanging attacks, I quit my vacillating and propped up my arm, beginning mana expulsion–262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡH2khkOKF5s
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdwWx16vpCY
**STRIKE**262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNKNb8jHcTS
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQOIfwsQtdt
–only to be immediately interrupted.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLyJbFvTvMZ
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOYc61xmuWh
A metallic clang blew out and shook my body not because of its ferocity, but because it happened right behind me. I turned my head a second after and saw two clashing swords, forming an x.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnpi1H6R2IS
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxhKUmHuGjM
"Stop standin' still kid! Move!"262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEM5pvT5dzx
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡl6X4SnfTyl
Without a second beat, I scurried away. I continued mana expulsion, partially out of instinct, and weakly lobbed a sturdy stone at the swords.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtLloHi0kqj
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjHqDjDjG1g
I didn't hit them. They separated, and only then did I see who wielded them. Juke on the right, and another robed man on the left.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBBXzE15lfE
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡs45t4aViWM
I've seen those navy motifs enough to have them evoke a fighting instinct in me. I quickly regained my composure and got in a stance, taking my tendril out. Juke ran to my side, but he didn't stop.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7NnMEz311s
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmtxb9CDfwP
"C'mon!"262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJfMIRvaTsi
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZ6OnM6SFNo
"--Ah!"262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡa7zlqfjwaA
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWUkAD1jzIB
I was quick enough to realize that this wasn't my fight. I turned tail and followed Juke, noticing that I finally wasn't the last to leave.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXk3yrZtMPy
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgMOqdj7jdo
I made no effort to inspect the ones who weren't moving.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4pNMvpqEV6
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzhEpvAi526
–
–
–
What a moron.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfNHf3ovn7U
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuEGN8ssgCG
It was to be expected– it should've been expected. The signs were so obvious that he knocked himself for being so remiss.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoyDOE71ybA
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvPOPuxze3p
A large room, utterly silent until the decisive moment. An ambush in a guarded building; what a concept, wasn't it?262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlZF3qtYjnC
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡR8ekiCzfG2
**THUD**262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9k5RtrHATz
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2JFwRmkOY6
"Ngh!"262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxVCdEShkTl
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGblCaq8GSs
That quaking strike brought him out of his scolding. He slid across the floor, biting his lips over his bruised arms.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYTJFPPe0QL
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8noAyLAHZh
"That thing on your shoulder's a real blowhard–"262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMmBNpHBWwv
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVlB2PQDKgz
Unable to finish his line, forced to roll to the side to avoid a devastating projectile. It shook the room even through the magic-resistant skeleton. He got to his feet and reached into his torn coat, pulling out a single crossbow and shooting.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTvzJ9FaTTp
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSNvy8YGdGJ
To his surprise, the bolt connected. The Bringer was too slow on his feet to dodge it. It didn't connect with his body, however.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyDeMB6zR4D
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡO4oAh3UHZF
"--I should've known!"262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpElxihqsT4
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWLKDTs0f4T
Instead, the bolt lodged into a plate of wood, one thrown from the side. Pars darted his gaze and saw a second Bringer. They quickly rushed to the first one's side.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhRW0UKQgQV
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJsJuyhKjVm
"Two against one, huh? I should've expected such dirty play, but–!"262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUnM73C3xTK
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡneqwJleANm
Pars had a tool in his disposal to even the odds.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaYMxTT8cA6
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡN7ZRAN4k7c
"DAVE!"262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡm8G83Ai1Dh
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFrczX0f9RG
Shouting the name of his colleague, he turned his head this way and that to see where his partner was, making sure to glance back at his enemies occasionally. The Bringers didn't move, but they exchanged looks. Pars understood the meaning even with their faces covered. He ignored that, focusing on his unsuccessful finding of his friend, and so–262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzhZOcjlqZc
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ35ppo8ondK
"Dave! If you can hear me, I need some help!"262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡU1l29vzcKp
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQ4IeGRzIPg
He shouted again as he eyed the Bringers. The two got in a fighting stance, brandishing their respective weapons and preparing to dash. But, they didn't.
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPyc9uqX1o6
It wasn't out of trepidation, of fear or anything of the sort, but because they noticed something Pars didn't. He glanced behind him and spotted the man he'd been looking for.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNZP3idNLv1
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSK843EYobi
"Dave? How'd you get over there!? I just checked that place!"262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyOQ7mLbaFb
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzJEnWmB67u
"Shut up, please. From now on, talk only with regards to the battle."262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5qDON6lOIm
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfnoLpuI7ND
He stood up from his crouched position. Pars noticed that he was standing beside a body. It was motionless; completely still in the limbs and the chest. Had he not noticed that, Dave's face would've still given it away.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBVImekYK4p
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlYAS90Ab26
"...Those are our first casualties–"262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHpNSyIhCYm
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmaXB6ikY6Y
**BOOM**262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSwIMWUYgTl
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy5PMHz0q0I
As Pars was making his remark, an ear-shattering blast materialized before him. His eyes looked away from the blast, as his head was turned to Dave at that moment. When he jerked back, all he saw was a floating, crumbling piece of pottery.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡA1rgvQCRYf
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMox17iYGiS
"--Shit, I lost my focus! I owe you one!"262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2ohzmTgSUH
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3dteegPHES
Dave slowly strode to his side. He snatched the grains of the pottery, and as he held them in his hand, they shrunk into a pulp of clay he promptly dropped into a sack.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAJEKaFsds9
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTUhLcRzH94
"I'm here now."262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡww6TBclGVS
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ61U5yffufb
Leaning down and reaching inside the sack, the two warriors now mirrored each other's stances. They glared at Bringers, anticipating a jerk, a dash, a shot or a swing or a slash. All the Bringers did was reciprocate.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJG608cmHBz
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLkB7KPBFVN
The clashing duos stood stock still in the silent room. Maimed by magic, coated in blood, reeking of death. His pounding heartbeat– the only sign he wasn't like corpses. Pars knew that losing would only lead to more.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ57WMnmy48W
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFui93tlr53
And thus, he dashed forward, reaching in his coat.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdjrtEpQghb
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCq9lkj5BT0
–262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnQy8LeOcGW
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5qRkvyX7P3
–262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDLCLA9RZS7
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡC5APfnzCt8
–262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3cabdTwkym
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFp50ZrH5lB
By some force of nature, the two men split to combat their respective opponents. Pars thought of stopping for a second, calling for Dave to help him team up on this one or something of the sort. But Pars knew they didn't have, nor ever could have a relationship like that.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzRt9VlkHLt
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJAWJBu26en
He thought it strange that these were his thoughts right before the fight. Pars pushed them aside, but they already left their mark.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCtkU7PQmvl
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgyV9mjthWs
He drew his knife out of his coat while putting his unloaded crossbow back in. The man he was fighting with was the one with the explosive cylinder, a weapon that succeeded in range just as well as it did in close quarters. But from its size alone, Pars could tell it was unwieldy.
So he flipped his knife in a reverse grip and slashed at the Bringer, who stepped back from the attack. Pars followed with a spin and a kick, but his foot was just short of making contact. The Bringer retaliated with a small dash and a kick of his own, which Pars had to raise his chin to avoid.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡs6DUioBnbk
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn2I6BZS5Rr
He slashed again, a horizontal one this time, and when it missed he tossed his knife to change its direction and slashed again. It missed the Bringer, but it caught his robe. It cut open, revealing what looked to be–262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdz7neFjLCX
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNw9AEWWrDl
"Armor. Much like the others, huh?"262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUY4G7r0Ig4
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7bIZVqZ4sy
The Bringer clicked his tongue and backed away. Pars didn't chase him. He reached inside his coat and took out his second, loaded crossbow. He aimed it at him, which caused the bringer to panic and shield his chest with the cylinder. Pars didn't fire, instead, he began mana expulsion through his hand.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHedngxhm43
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡt7ozzBFTHd
The Bringer realized he had been tricked. He raised the cylinder and hoisted it on his shoulder, but by the time he could, Pars had already made his earthly contraption: A vase of stone, latched to his back and connected to his crossbow.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpoWtS684V8
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxFb5qO3yRJ
One loud boom sounded throughout the room. The air around him, now dappled with cinders, guided the blazing arrow right to the Bringer.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrxjMF4aEVX
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡg8gb22N9BW
But the Bringer's contraption fired as well.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNk9nI8a7og
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjkWF6XgNlg
**BOOM**262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZxIfbaen1Y
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEJaQksKOey
The two projectiles connected, but their crash was closer to the Bringer than to Pars. Still, Pars was forced to step back from the blast, and the now ashen air forced a couple of coughs out of him.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEEHi1YmlSj
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkMaJk9EUpB
"Pars!"262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡerGkeII7he
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1y9hcZOEE8
"Huh?"262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡB5EcLtfpuy
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeRu5JvsClH
–262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrRk7RRmiuM
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcUUnNCOt93
–262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFt5PMQ3Lm5
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsrwkHLqsdS
–262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXlOc5RTVed
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡekgAILmvSP
It was some kind of instinct, or maybe a habit, the way Dave split from Pars and took up his own opponent. Pars reciprocated, which he appreciated, though Dave had no time nor humility to say as much.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkKEQzKsjn0
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZw5EKzh9VU
Had it been up to him, Dave wouldn't be in the Pillar, fighting a circus of lunatics who wore gaudy garments. He'd likely still be in his store, crafting and staring at the pottery on his shelves. Imports wouldn't have come for a few days, but Dave was crafty and spent years on his contingency. He wasn't as proud of his works as those of others, naturally, but it mattered little when it was so fun.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtSALrWpBGt
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡx2laMIQD9Q
No, truly, it was that silence that he valued most. That quiet building where nothing but creaking wood and muffled chatter reached his ears, with the occasional customer. It would've been even better in this scenario. The worst he'd have to deal with was a barging Bringer, but his barbed tongue would be enough to deter them. He was sure of it.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOZrCKRTyiK
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVjCql1DcTA
Though, as much as he'd like to believe that, he wasn't so stupid.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKqrOnwsgRg
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFIdjSPg7Et
**CLANG**262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXLBvZpBhzY
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQoF583z0Ia
Swords clashed and chattered. The other was steel, while dave's was one of clay, but molded and braced with mana. It was still, however, a weapon of clay.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEvdRukNjmO
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgV9yWxWKyo
He looked at his weapon, a coarse curve where the gallant tine used to be and sighed. Had it been him from the past, it wouldn't be such a sorry show. The rigid structure dissolved into a mushy clump. He reached into the sack wrapped around his belt and took more clay, mixing it with the pile in his hand.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡp1Gr5J4bed
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡffQCBD67FC
The Bringer gave Dave no easy time doing so. He rushed forward, both hands on his longsword, and swung at Dave. Holding the clay, he threw it forward, and it mutated into a great shield which the sword bounced off of like a ball off the ground. The Bringer staggered, and Dave grabbed the clay, transforming it into a thin battering ram.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkoUOkeRsvt
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAnNZYyJDiR
**SLAM**262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJpkngyhX26
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeQU9eLrvNM
He ran and bashed it into the Bringer's stomach, who let out a breathless retch. Dave kept running, planning to pin the Bringer to the wall, but the bringer grabbed onto the ram and stuck his feet into the ground. Dave's advance was stopped, but that dismayed him little. The pole of clay retracted and morphed into a ball. Dave dug his fingers into it as it hardened, and then he swung it across. The Bringer barely raised his arm quickly enough to block it.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKocYStCDID
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡebtemXSnua
Though, by the way he was sent to the floor, it would be a stretch to call it a block.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLCHd2KUel9
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjrLxuOSBTt
The Bringer tried to get on his feet but kicked him in the chin, sending him rolling. Dave morphed his clay into a sword and approached the Bringer with steady steps. With how much he struggled to stand, Dave was sure that he was done.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVAQHLKp7bi
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFBNGuyE2Cu
But then, the Bringer reached into his robe. A barrage of little knives flew his way, and dave couldn't morph his clay fast enough. He curled up and blocked what he could, and though it missed his vitals–262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSi1GJxROCY
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNiP7SvNFEJ
"Ngh! Shit–!"262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbsNVjcul7b
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAKTOn8RkkZ
A few knives scraped his, and another violently lodged itself into his leg. Dave stood up quickly and attempted to run, aching to finish the still floor-stuck Harbinger.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbP4hSgnvG1
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKYasVWfs1w
But then–262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQLQ1oRlAFs
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlEVb37irEP
**BOOM**262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡara6AG0JZP
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiUqam5yXty
A ring in his ear followed by an eruption of dust, one that prevented him from seeing his target. Dave clicked his tongue and backed away, paying heed to his impaled limb. Seeing no better alternative–262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLI8VtzhwCq
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFuKstclHfZ
–262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡR3785nksrl
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJZJBzCotsz
–262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ10tcUpagnn
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlI2JeGifCT
–262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhGPNCzVz9S
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtoDmhiqELk
Pars heard Dave's voice through the thick smog. He assumed he wanted to regroup, a prudent decision with the low visibility, but yelling would reveal his location to his opponents. He had to find a way to reconnect, or at the very least, keep his eye out for the Bringers.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvm0bOyTPmJ
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhn3Asz0e47
Though it was impossible to see, Pars knew that staying still was a death wish. He dashed back, careful not to go too far to avoid crashing into a wall, then quietly tiptoed around the parameter of the room. Where he was, Pars was out of the clutch of the smoke, but that made seeing inside all the more difficult. However–262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGWZBLuXZC9
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDHj3yu68kX
"Gah–! You scared me!"262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZqblbAtmwP
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZNXfLdlCBD
Dave burst from the smoke, exiting it so fiercely it rippled. The smoke began to clear shortly after, and the two men eyed the room for their opponents. A few seconds passed by, then a minute; nowhere to be seen, there was only one possible option.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiuaAasDax5
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSxEFBcy6QL
"They're hiding," Dave muttered.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2IPM3fOEOy
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIJN8T3pNGM
"Yeah. We're at a good vantage, though. After all–"262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTZBJN8uORw
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFFSphiQITK
"No, this is terrible."262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡl6vS0LKRH4
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKulyVx3WnX
Dave interjected with a rival statement, giving Pars a confused look.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuGdQprteiN
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSFj7mpmPtU
"Of these four boxes, there's no telling which one they're hiding behind. They can wait there all they want and we can't do anything about it. We're the attacking party, after all."262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ26ydU0dgwf
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlzcOqgDR99
"You're... you're making a good point. Tch!"262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnR92iONlsp
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrn6UcnIRFp
Pars took on a defensive stance, raising his arms and darting his eyes from booth to booth. He looked at Dave for his reaction, but he showed no concern. In fact, he almost looked annoyed.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzDVwkd8Rs0
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQvwSAJqm07
"What do we do? I have a suggestion, but–"262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpQS11Yr2VA
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDGvYAlK1qP
"No. No suggestions from you, please."262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfp8fOKNxOW
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡww5VamK3b0
He put his fingers on his temples. Completely discarding him, closing his eyes, and locking himself within a chamber of thoughts. Pars was permitted no entry, no involvement, and no influence.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpTCqKSqCo1
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡg68yC45VoV
It was standard proceedings, as far as Pars was concerned. But something about it, something about this instance, made it utterly insufferable.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTT8dNIYqqV
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzOJdvIn38j
"Why not, Dave? Why not take a suggestion?"262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJWnMSQAfWA
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZ4ncvxDw0P
Dave's eyes twitched, but he still held his head.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsafs7P3e1Q
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUwS9ThEYY0
"Aren't you and I a team? Aren't we fighting while staking our lives? Fighting the same enemy!?"262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9zVorUW5Rl
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjZ99pJY1Gw
Still, no response.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhBSVICC9yA
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4xfIuQajYC
"Can't you jerk out the wax from your ears and listen to me for once!? Why are you still being so damn stubborn!? Why are you–"262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqmbCjPE4do
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrowRVnkbc9
"Because you're entirely incompetent."262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCuCYMGTQfL
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡO7zGZmUeRw
With a low, but stern tone, Pars' rant was cut short.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡx8fP6uQ4qD
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwSqHLm0mE7
"Because people like you care too much for looks. Because people like you want to garner laughs and smiles but yield when the situation demands sincerity. Because people like you can't gauge to save their life. Like a tool, only useful when something pilots you."262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXmaDbu8ORZ
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEiq5VaoJzb
"..."262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcUVfVQxK4W
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡslmOEgHeK8
"I can't deny your fighting prowess, but your idiocy makes it all useless. Look at this: your ridiculous need to use two crossbows. Your unsuitable equipment. Your sagging coat. Your dull knife. Your dearth of ammunition. Do you use such bootless tools just because they're flashy? All of this focus on image, and look at what good that's done for us. Look at the position we're in now."262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAhlxaYg4FQ
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6hrtapTL8R
"..."262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzEBLefpVwb
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiT1M9y1MrG
Dave stopped his speech. He sighed and grabbed a chunk of clay from his sack, transforming it into a heavy sword. He took a step forward, but suddenly stopped to look behind him.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBDJtj58f5E
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaNlogLDY3x
"What?"262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡN709vLjsVB
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡP8aS12cw02
Pars was still. He tried to move. Even his mouth would've done, but his lips couldn't open through the spiral of thoughts he'd been thrown into. Dave lost his attention quickly. He turned around and brandished his weapon, and seeing that, Pars gagged the words out of his throat.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡguwOU4xE17
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPxr2mBDE6m
"...You think I'm doing this only for reputation?"262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡr2zXhunjNR
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3FIZnR8ikI
Dave didn't even grant him a nod, but his silence was affirmation enough.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5UbCfYP2ZQ
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbJqZKgfTF6
"...I see."262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDGBFofjr5O
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9dexgpf8yU
He assumed a fighting stance yet again. Only, it wasn't held with stride and trust, but with shaking limbs. A pose done only as proof of effort; a pose done for someone else.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDIwTNuwVYT
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfIf46lwifE
Pars realized how pathetic it was. He dropped it instantly and pinched his nose, releasing a lengthy, laborious sigh. A moment's pause passed and he took a step forward. He grabbed his coat by its collar and slowly took it off, dropping it with a clatter. He balled his hands into a fist and narrowed his eyes at the room before him.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzH5GjgwRBq
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7IMkpx5p2g
"Maybe you're right, Dave. My get-up is a little ridiculous. The way I fight is a little strange– who am I kidding, it's plain stupid to someone like you. Maybe something has to change. Not maybe, you're right– something does have to change."262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJIY2QGqH2x
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFh8a5wZcyj
He reached into his coat. He took out a crossbow, his knife, and his last bolt. He kicked the coat aside and loaded the crossbow. He had a view of all four booths of the room, and angles just wide enough for something to strike them all. He hooked the knife on his belt and held his hand out, spreading his fingers apart. Sparks began to form.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiI9HDJ53Kb
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXBvvnVnxWQ
"But what really matters to me, is that I've missed the mark. I know you're especially stuck-up, but it's exactly people like you that I do this for."262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1CJviMWqOo
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnBATv1OlRp
A restless, pulsing blaze formed in Pars' palm. He held his arm up and split the flame into four.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOKhS6fgPMq
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFnbIaaGsR5
"I want to inspire. I want to be adored. I want to calm people down just by being there. A beacon, to signal that everything will be fine. So, if I can't even earn your respect–"262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7wEfxJGoHT
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDaVr3Yzo5J
He slid his feet apart, reeling his arm back and aiming at the booths.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡj0p8BFyJZd
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6t3HiggerF
"--then there's no hope for my wishes!"262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvbAqjgCh7P
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkPlVlf9VbB
He flung his arm and the flames followed, striking all four booths and engulfing them. The architecture of the building would snuff the flames out soon, but that didn't matter. Before even the paint burnt off, the Bringers soared like flies. Dave rushed forward, but before attacking, he yelled:262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXHMHeYbhC3
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsgJMyWu00v
"I'll take the one with the cannon!"262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFn9w5gjkMa
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUxQHk7oY2s
"Alright!"262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjtIR4Sz7I1
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAFg4bmHr7M
Pars thus ran opposite of Dave. It was strange; they weren't any closer to working together, and yet, Pars felt satisfied. He had a kind of drive that warmed him and a feeling in his chest that told him he had taken the right step.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbLQmK8DYbl
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZbTtFGdrBo
He brandished the crossbow and ran at the Bringer. Pars lost all his worries– he steeled himself, to prove his words, to break through and shine.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCFZrlSZtvK
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVnLFvp11Ft
–262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAnCWQ55bD0
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiQ3hMxeZAz
–262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKNltA7hAPk
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYhXgWhjA3M
–262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXQe3O2NV5H
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡT2dd4msFBw
He couldn't catch anything from this opponent when he fought the one with the blaster, but a sword-wielding man wasn't a riddle. Pars fought and sparred with dozens of them, so he still approached with brazen moxie. The Bringer, still running from the flames, didn't notice Pars hot on his heels. He took advantage of that; instead of a furious, direct sprint, Pars veered to the side and ran around the Bringer's trajectory. He came to a stop and turned around, brandishing his sword directly behind him, but Pars hid behind the bottommost booth, letting a single eye peer at the Bringer.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwpIGTb9Pom
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡG2qIb3Dzyc
He thought of firing his crossbow but that man was likely more armored than the other. So instead, he began mana expulsion and formed a cluster of earthen spikes. He moved his hand just over the edge of the booth and fired.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMKxTHSmhQZ
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDrSUIBtURq
The man noticed the spikes instantly, moving to block with his sword. Pars' volley was too vast and quick for success. The spikes tore and scratched at his robes, but none of them wounded or penetrated. A great deal bounced off like the man was of rubber, and the ones that didn't were shallow in their piercing.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ9znpHdB1X
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0PppZPv2MA
Pars clicked his tongue and kicked from his hiding place, charging at the bringer. The bringer didn't challenge his approach but took a stance with his sword in both hands.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSWU1XGCpuy
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRU3I89lOnS
Even though his dagger was hefty, it would be a sure loser in a clash with that sword. Pars ran his brain with every step, sifting through whatever options he thought of first. A direct approach was dangerous, a contest was out of the question, and Pars had too much skin exposed to dance and stand with limbs.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNRYk21BHqo
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFEig0i4crU
Thus, he skidded to a stop. He flipped his dagger and jumped back, spinning on a foot and kicking the weapon with the other.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡntKs9QKIIN
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4Nnt4No9YB
The Bringer jolted, and his surprise netted Pars a successful hit. His eyes widened when he saw the dagger embedded into his shoulder. Shallow as it was, it didn't matter to Pars. After all, such a flashy move managed to–262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7JdJ88uFD0
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBm00c5xqmi
"--No!"262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡA4jLOEOnTF
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZpvhSRl8Ag
He hit himself up the head and bolted toward the bringer. That split second was enough for him to dislodge the knife, and Par's blade was thrown back at him. Its speed was too sudden, so he jerked his head as it whizzed by, chipping his ear and forcing a hiss.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4r9nzEfkHb
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNXNU6iLgxr
Pars continued his approach. The Bringer reacted by reeling his arms back and swinging. It was completely horizontal, leaving no room for a reactive step, but–262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8B5PWt2g1M
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡln22KkpISW
"Hyua!"262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaNmeL68A6o
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWQm7FWEzuh
Pars dove forward to the ground and latched onto the Bringer's foot. The swing naturally missed, but now Pars was stuck in an unsightly position with no easy counter. The bringer violently shook his foot but pars lost the dagger to quiet it down.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvu7d4NYZ86
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNqqCZMz5q7
However, he did have another sharp object.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDc3cSaaIGR
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHXbdluUywQ
He raised his crossbow and stabbed the bolt into his calf. He pulled it out and did it again. There was resistance, but Pars' quick thrusts pierced through the shoddy leather armoring– an easy weak point, and one he didn't pass to abuse. But Pars' awareness didn't narrow with the opportunity. A few stabs were all he wanted before letting go and rolling aside, missing the hunk of metal that clanged the ground he had just been on.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyHlq9WOwgg
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡREFQQzUEwe
He got to his feet and lunged at the Bringer. Unable to defend, the Bringer dragged his cumbersome sword as he dashed away, but it all played into Pars' plans.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuZbxZp1rA0
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoIdUOvDZ0n
Gripping the crossbow with both of his hands, he raised it and aimed the bolt at the hooded face. Through the shadow, Pars could see the white from his shrinking pupils. The Bringer jerked to block the bolt, releasing one hand to cover his face– but a bolt never came.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡb4JnrQ24D1
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡABAjFVL6aP
Pars lowered the crossbow and freed one hand. It was a foolhardy move with an immediate toll, but in under a second, Pars formed a mass of flames. Irregular in its shape and wavering in its form, he pressed the mass against the stomach of the Bringer. The Bringer only just began to move his covering arm. Pars felt inclined to smirk, but in that split moment, he resisted.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyvwdYuMdXJ
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOs8jHwuKr1
And what came was–262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrgHrxtXWtb
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ86F1ONZbJ4
**BOOM**262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzqrsIIGCpu
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡN010zZ1YHd
The blast seared his vision first. His body launched with violent spins afterward. A swift collision against a hard surface stopped his flight. He let out a leaden groan and rubbed his eyes before opening them again, but the aftermath was much more painless than he expected.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡB17hwLq9ug
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvsArapP6Pm
Pars stood up. He looked at himself to assess the damage and found his skin black as charcoal. It made him jolt, but a quick shake of the arm revealed that it was a blanket of burnt fabric. He shook his head and returned his attention to the battlefield, but his ashen vision made it difficult to see far. He saw two figures in a duel– likely Dave and the other –but the third was–262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCOVp7yU0Xq
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkaeCBTxpQP
"--oop!"262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡw83h7JYsdq
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzsf1e4QEaK
Instinct commanded his body to move. He jumped to the side but was still blown away by a furious gust. He stopped himself from rolling, noticing his knife nearby and scampering to grab it. After his snatch, he gave his eyes one more rub and observed the scene.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPUEWp2oMgz
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡK7aiis7Y4n
"You... you're a sick jokester."262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIxpjSA5OEB
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMP8AJn9cdX
He lost the energy to click his tongue. All he could wage were weak words of wrath. Words that left with ebbing air, the panting of a hog before a gliding spear.
The Bringer from before had their robes charred, revealing a blackened plate of armor that covered his chest. But those details came secondary to his erratic nimbus of wind.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRPEZN5A0rk
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUoDNHpIvnl
Pars brandished his knife, ready to charge. He had no opportunity to, though. A bend of the knees was followed by a soaring dash. The Bringer turned into an arrow, and. Pars raised his hands to block the damage. But he wasn't hit.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ6TkSWpeNI
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzQoexvPgWn
A blast of wind erupted from the Bringer that cocked him back and pinned him in the air. His hovering body left Pars' mouth agape, and he had it shut as it was kicked.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKTMwQxFl1u
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpSWgVm9r4y
The kick wasn't strong. It shouldn't have been, because it didn't feel all that painful. But the ferocity by which Pars flew compensated for the painlessness.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOpZYw5diYp
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwnKcJYIqtR
His head bore into the wall. His heartbeat rang in his ears and head, a frenzied demand that Pars responded to only through reflex. He felt a liquid trickle down and down his body, and he didn't have to wipe it off and look to tell it was blood.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJrowiJJkjE
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡq9cFC3SXl3
"What the hell... what the hell!?"262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡW0nTnVvG14
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhD34CYcpTR
His knife locked within his palm, he eyed the Bringer. The nimbus was gone now, but the bringer had a wide and stretched pose and performed expulsion from all possible orifices. Any moment that coat of wind would cover him again, and in that moment he'd be struck with another gusting bomb.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwONPEO6wOw
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4rYPrhvHIe
Pars grityed his teeth and wiped his brow. The blood was getting cold. If it was on any longer, he would shiver.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRwItK8ih9q
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWsonrim1P3
Though, his body took those measures far sooner than it should've.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡe1IAdrbteB
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡE13x5L01Qy
"...Heh."262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8ZNfBDMuBo
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡerowiCYZqY
He clicked his tongue and put his blade in the holster, creating a hunk of stone with a handlebar with his free hand. A crummy, clumsy cover– the only thing he could make before that Bringer flew again.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrSvJ2wnBdh
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrM1I6uExgf
–
–
–
Dave was pricked by the blazing booths. That heat reached his head like a sucker punch, and like a sucker punch, it was a blow that damaged more than the body. Though, it was clear to him that what was happening inside was irrespective of that.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMrR3QIkuN8
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡF5ANgfDTlU
He couldn't pin that feeling down. Not with the time he had, though that troubled him. Time wasn't a problem before for situations like these. What changed now? That feeling seeped through and danced on his skin. It had to be because goosebumps were forming.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpKBqfvVviM
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcm88PnesT6
**THUD**262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9wMVFsZAj2
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYtQxlzBTk1
His clay sword clashed with the Bringer's cannon, letting out a clunky sound. The scuffle lasted for a moment until Dave kicked his foot. He struck the Bringer in the leg just hard enough to loosen his grip. Dave won the struggle but reaped no reward; the Bringer merely backed off the moment his weapon gave way.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMCLuD8p5RA
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡviCWMdig8L
He scoffed at the result. A part of him had hoped that would be the end there, but he knew an opponent Pars struggled with would be no walk in the park.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7UNsUXpKDq
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4icQ4BN8hy
"Though I have to wonder–"262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyxyWkQWtkj
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBp83mRGjSR
He closed the gap with a swift dash and thrust his sword. The bringer didn't dodge the strike, but rather, blocked it with his forearm. The sword didn't penetrate– it nearly bounced off.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡea77t0eirq
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmxFSrGDjPs
The sudden backlash left him wide-eyed and his stance awry. He tried a quick correction. The Bringer shot a cone of earth from his cannon, and Dave moved fast enough to escape with just a graze. But the top of his blade had been caught by the projectile.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡH4buOXg6ew
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlIvLLNSgiB
Dave stepped back and disassembled his weapon into simple clay. He tore the pile in half and created a small round shield in one and a spear in the other.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlevhj3ahuw
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGOpX6Gq0Sp
However, after its creation, Dave realized that such a puny shield would only be a liability. Amending it was locked by the advance of the Bringer. Dave acted with his defensive arsenal at first, sticking his shield out and gripping the spear. The Bringer aimed his cannon and fired another drill of earth. Dave contested it with his shield, and though the force pushed him back and tore at his arm it was enough to stop it.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUx500Fy03o
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnlfn1CpJJj
The Bringer kept up with his assault. He forewent the cannon and rushed with an earthly dagger. Dave had a moment of perplexion, one that lasted just long enough for the Bringer to aim his launcher yet again. Close enough for it to reach, Dave simply stabbed his spear. But the Bringer stepped to the side and snatched the shaft.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYV5I9f5ZhV
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpzGGrIgXDi
With his movements constricted, Dave had an immediate thought: he let go of the spear and bashed the Bringer with his shield. Even with its dent, it was strong enough to shove him away, but by no means did it do any damage.
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6UBlcAlubt
"Irritating...!"262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdvPyltaZdb
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgFSfxarW8a
He dissolved the shield and picked up the spear. He grabbed the weapon with both hands, and though he was fixed to rush, he stood still. Dave knew keeping his distance would just give the Bringer more chances to shoot, but this was something he had to spare. Something dawned on him amid that fight, when his spear was caught and his shield became his weapon. It was a question, though when it gained form, it didn't appear as such.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡshnRNBH1B3
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWlELHFFRwa
Dave didn't like to use spears.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXSD6jCJDBq
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHr6TTrst05
"...Haaaaa."262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡioHF2Furu3
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHpRXFD7src
He released a tired sigh. He returned his attention to the Bringer, who naturally took advantage of Dave's pondering and made himself comfortable across the room. Dave charged forth.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGL3b8E0hdF
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJwqSlEr1mX
It was strange of him. Back then, his versatility was the root of his pride. The crux of his proficiency and the agent of his title. An 'Officer,' he was labeled. He retired it long ago.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6eNpMG0RZj
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBNsj61IEXg
But, he didn't let his skills lie and rot, and it was precisely for situations like these that he practiced swings and ran around the city. That he made those vases despite thinking himself scanty.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlVyuB7fveL
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡodcdlSS2j4
That's what he always told himself, at least.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAhHbtO65ON
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡs2NkTw56Gh
**CLASH**
He couldn't help but see a bit of Pars in himself. It wasn't his bravado– goodness, no, it wasn't that. But it was of a similar substance. The root of both his and Pars' bizarre tendencies, an attribute admonished and attacked by Dave.
**CLANG**262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcwczH1eqwM
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJNdFW35Dts
Foolishness. It was plain human foolishness. And though it pained him to confess it, he was as much a practician as anybody else.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFaemh2Es1q
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCUBrHurFdc
**CLASH**262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxd7yXb4I44
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKZSQk6BS5t
Dave slid across the room, reeling from a blocked strike delivered by the Bringer's cannon. Though his body was untouched, his muscles twitched from the force. He fixed his stance and steeled his composure. He opened his eyes and gazed at the Bringer, then sprinted while forming a new clay claymore.
**CLANG**262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWU2cV2myVh
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwjZrDqvGQN
The strokes of his arms, the swings of his blade, the stomps of his feet, and the sting of his wounds. Why was it that all of these, these things– why did they make him feel so much?262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsTHbuS6i3K
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3CIwaHRlhh
**CLASH**262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjbBqJrPwDP
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHtT09l8Mqo
Frustration, fervor, fury, ferocity–
**CRASH**262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWAOMKOBDTV
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEBX21wrkpj
Adrenaline, adamance, anxiety, anguish–
**CLASH**262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlYqnEtBeeg
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrnEpuViXLf
His chest was a twister that forever picked new debris.
**CLASH**
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXBkbtV9PvG
Confusion–262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3eKMHVEgkd
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsq782kZq28
**CLANG**262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGjh63VUgDs
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZquXalyhJw
Delusion–262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVgNnsGWhfq
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCBJpbPoPC5
**CRASH**262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTAEGmGWdIE
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOFWVwyTvh6
All lead to one conclusion:262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqe4OFbHbfH
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡl7gxXMVoKH
**SMASH**262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡV587n2gf6m
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5zu2ntlxsk
Followed by the shattering of his blade, Dave rolled across the sullied floor, pushed further by a sudden gust of wind. The blast at that time was too fierce for him to block. He got to his feet, looked at his palm, and wondered if his blade truly was to blame.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgdqjPdE42U
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCnXv6bdoUO
"...No, of course it isn't."262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeKZE8V5PL7
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRFdzzV28tE
Dave had a smirk on his face. But he was a torn man under that expression.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuTTDzNUQaG
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBveg4CHA6S
Because, didn't he long for a more peaceful life? Is that not why he made that pottery shop?262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ0GtZXSWrG
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVxaGRNjtaQ
Then why were these blasts of nostalgia laced with such regret–262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡShjQ7W6WxA
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiKTadd7Tdm
**THUD**262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5UPVGxlMEM
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1yAiqvhS5B
A sudden force hurled Dave out of his muddied mind. He tumbled to the floor, striking his chin against it and prompting a thorough rub. He turned to see what had hit him, and found the coatless body of his teammate–262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZLlLpQU7M2
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtmkME9yekG
"Pars!?"262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzPoUD89wtv
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkLQqJUzhtA
"Ack... quiet down. My head's spinning as is."
–
–
–
The two men stood with their backs against each other. They eyed their surroundings, landing their gazes on their debilitating opponents. Dave still ached from the collision, and Pars didn't fare any better, but their stalwart stances still intimidated.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFdzbeRRlkE
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡA8bHqHCMd1
"How's it on your end," Pars asked, his voice cracking on every consonant. Dave didn't fancy telling of his inner turmoils, so he told of his physical state instead.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡR9btHmHLHx
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuwCSsZwtLh
"Fine, but injured. Their tricks are starting to exhaust me."262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡM8vBN4ugnX
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡl4zZjlfmXl
"Likewise. When I think I get 'em, they just pull another thing out of their ass."262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡT6aiA2dQrs
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHdWwIY2XYH
The Bringers began a steady approach. No flexing of their muscles nor narrowing of their eyes would deter them now; they had to think fast and act just as quickly.
"I'm getting pretty tired of these two, you know."262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBQfCG8gSi2
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuDhoVFcwDv
Dave sternly nodded at Pars' assertion.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuSmUHYDe2e
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡizUeUOhKDX
"I'm getting tired in general. I've been hit too many times, and I'm not built for battle marathons anyway. We need to finish this fast."262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsAyZhVDGQa
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSnagnURtOe
"What do you propose?"262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡP9qKMaTtKZ
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwuGM2k73pE
Pars closed his eyes and took a deep breath.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPV4kJR6l5q
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWPJYsW9beI
The truth was that he had nothing. He was enamored with the idea of cooperating since the beginning of this fight, but he barely had the strength to throw a punch at another person. All this fighting up until now only to prove a point. But Pars realized, in his battered and weary state, that only damaged his performance.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZj5f105QQC
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSTj3RjL2dh
To be competent. To be confident. To be strong. To be a man who inspires others. To be a man who saves the helpless.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIuusSUax7H
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGZVp6LuklN
It seemed like these were all contradictions. Nobody could maintain being that way. His heavy breaths told him so. His failing limbs told him so. It was impossible not to slip into poor habits, to make a fool of oneself, to fall into the mendacious hands of ambition.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJyybGhDOO7
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAjJsFZjIUc
A part of him knew better, though. But that part was tucked away from the forefront of his mind. And in his weakness, Pars lamented only one thing: his inability to–262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXZGObS8zgW
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaTHVg3E7Be
"Whatever we do, it would be... smart of us to do it together."262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVN0HK5Dv18
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqh6jxB7kh7
"--Huh?"262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ14y4wGoFv8
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ74L3xeDRGD
"It's loathsome to admit, but you were right. I was stubborn, and I can't refuse to tolerate you this time."262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAFNmhIAhGz
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6s9viIzkWJ
"...Always backhanded, huh."262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmIDbEN4jlX
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrDoP1Tp8A2
But Pars muttered that with an idiot's grin. To hear those words, and from that individual, from the person who sent him into such a mess in the first place. It almost made him laugh262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUIQcDvLZpy
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQR1NEObOEK
"Just like the old days, huh? Alright, just give me a second."262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3Tainet98l
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2eHLti6iWM
"We likely don't have one."262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhY83Z85v7f
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhZfWVMpa7q
He locked himself in thought, into a zone of his mind that split his focus and sense of time. He opened his eyes so his instincts could at least defend a surprise attack as he turned the cogs of his brain. He churned and churned and hoped for a bright idea to spawn from it. Something came of it, but–262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGwAggU3h2d
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1PYJGOoE1V
"It's gonna be an uphill battle."262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvwpgL688Fm
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCRjbnSb69L
"So nothing has changed. Go on, spit it out."262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlobTrj2BSt
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcd9D4BGqch
"Well, if you insist."262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIKx2eNgjTp
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2Gt5BpRB5z
–
–
–
Dave and Pars reinforced their stances. They moved their retinas to the corners of their sockets and nodded at each other, then swiftly swapped spots.
"Go!"
Pars and Dave burst into sprints, charging at their respective opponents with nothing but their bare hands. The Bringers inched to challenge them but hesitated at the sight of their armlessness. That tiny moment was all that was needed.
Pars' opponent dashed back, but it didn't dodge any attack. Pars never made one. He kept sprinting and sprinting, and his ceaseless charge compelled the Bringer to keep backing away. His opponent eventually got his grip, because he planted his feet and brandished his lethal fists, ready to counter.
But, just short of arm's length, Pars lunged forward and tackled the Bringer. But not to the ground, because he made damn well sure he kept a foot on the floor. His right foot as an axis, he spun his body and released the Bringer.
The Bringer flew just a few feet away. He was completely unharmed, and only more cautious now. He dashed forward to hit Pars and struck him directly in the stomach.
"..."
His looming silence professed his query. Pars answered by grasping his arms, and with a toothy smile that leaked bile through its gaps–
"Gotcha."
**BOOM**
–A great gust of wind erupted from his palms.
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIl4m244x4n
The bringer soared, rendered a bird by the speed that he flew. His attitude never decreased, he only moved further and further and further, completely opposite of Pars' direction.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3eBLlXQFJB
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVPcWbeVwo2
There, Dave sprinted from his pursuing enemy. His speed just outpaced the Bringer's own, a fact made possible only by his lighter baggage. He clutched his clay in one hand and shielded it with the other, darting his eyes behind him every other second to make sure he was at a comfortable distance from the Bringer.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHUvM40qhS2
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXV1Y6TWMzW
And then, that's when he heard the explosion. All of a sudden, Dave skidded to a stop and spun around to face his adversary. The motion confused and intimidated his opponent, who slowed down initially. But he saw how Dave still hadn't conjured a weapon and quickly returned to his blitzing pace–262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5VC9XeewdM
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1AElKrf1BN
**THUD**262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLtGKQfZf2K
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0Ql7opFefA
And then it came to a halt. Or rather, it was a boost. After all, this burst of speed was impossible by ordinary, human means. A feat that made it appear as if Dave was being pulled toward him. But this speed came with a blast, and truly, what good would it do if it meant his feet dislodged from the floor?262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSJKGfGhU8t
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHHMtOnDVa6
"--!"262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5JlatFo86n
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuxlHLUb8xl
The two Bringers tumbled towards Dave. Dangerous dashing, utter discombobulation. The Bringer's heads hadn't moved an inch, yet it felt like they were closer to the floor than their legs. Flying and flying, but finally, they began to fall.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡT9dMSX6SkY
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡajD0XJ0TSx
But then Dave put one foot down in front, and all their dismantled attention unified to that appendage. Dave began mana spinning, forming a tool out of his clay. A lengthy shaft with a pointed head whose tip grew thinner and thinner, because this tool only had one purpose: to impale.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRc9CZ0CQMO
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡubPDufknt8
Forgoing a spear, forgoing a dagger, and creating a great pole that would pierce even their plated armor. Within a second, their graves had been marked–262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnwrDMiUJ0U
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡe6kkrkOjXT
**SPLICE**262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqD29lCAiNN
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkhwiolzcoP
And it was that clay that became their stone.
Dave glared at the Bringers. He couldn't hold them long; his paltry tool was a terrible skewer. He released the two to the ground.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5EV2HSaXM4
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWRF9hVZxxn
"I missed one."262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxoqDW9oelG
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡc0O82zjEbg
He took the end of the shaft and quickly transformed it into a sizable needle, then thrust it directly into the neck of the other. Then for good measure, kicked the two away so their sides touched the floor. Stuck together, bleeding together.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcCkhXxA87J
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡikWGmvaCwZ
At that moment, strangely, Dave wondered if they were good friends.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYPoQsXITv4
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNJlf7kgXKX
"Hey!"262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLeNk69do7i
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWhP5jeiSeP
The voice of Pars roared from his side. He turned his head and saw him clutching his ribs, panting once he came close.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8gzpdZmsoP
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOK0brBBL9o
"Nice! You really got them in one hit."262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXJJmaMSTjo
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyy3LKhAcqs
"Of course I did. That was a specialty of mine."262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOZIO4IRBD2
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡalYT28ltkK
"Well, it's as you said, rust can make anything dull."262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡL8zWiGyxuL
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3zisaW71v8
"I never said that."262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjrLKX6ZEGI
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ18l7bIpltq
Pars turned away from Dave, looking at the two new corpses on the floor. He had a smile on his face, but it wasn't one wrung from the joy of victory but from the ability to still breathe.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7APYSbJ43C
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTCnhQ74Ff0
"It looks like working together was all we had to do all along."262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡubcUUaAlsB
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbzJsqayclx
"As if. It was your weakened state that let him underestimate you."262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7M68981jot
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡB0PiWu0jIt
"...Are you saying it wouldn't have worked if I didn't get my ass kicked?"262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6SATtS988m
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOBPgbnKvq6
To that, Dave merely raised his hands and smirked.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0civoPwDgV
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVtDHJUmU5I
"Haaaa. Damn you."262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWuVOy14rt8
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWBEgYeD7bP
Pars plummeted to the ground. It was clear that his legs were failing, and all those beatings were catching up to him.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEf586bs1zW
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡom4pt9rfi9
"They are dead, right?"262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrsUonXTNXm
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2qbF0ujHzR
"I pierced one's heart and slit the neck of the other. If you doubt that, you can confirm it yourself."262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvpppDzX1wz
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5ZnsLfNCSR
"I can't muster up the strength to stand. Seriously, I might even pass out."262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡp2GQbdUobV
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVP5vCohzj2
"I–"262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSeRdTZrw7X
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFZcdh3TZzB
Dave opened his mouth to offer help, but a sudden wave of pain told him that carrying a live body would be practically impossible. So instead, he sat on the floor.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡo147X3t8fK
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJogx1eJoyV
"Huh?"262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡl08yovucqx
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGrzlS8xeAW
Pars looked at him with a raised eyebrow. David replied with one of his own.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡP1ZaBN32l5
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqbxU2cXWRm
"I thought you would leave the room. Not join me."262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJdz9j66mWs
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ335aVZZuXQ
"And leave you here by your lonesome? Why would I do that, anyway?"262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNEWEVdQZDf
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDohwbOD1AL
"Well... there's bodies we need to bury now. Or at least tags to be collected."262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIfruAZBUrs
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIHbNNbjl62
"That can wait. I'm too weary and weak anyway."262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGyzVhijH9O
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBuhqhvfjRB
"Oh... yeah, that makes sense."262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡp8Jjbn2rjm
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡl70eFjxIQs
The two men's gazes rested on the bodies of their enemies. It was gruesome, certainly, but their heavy robes hid any trace of their humanity. It was akin to being around a fire rather than a couple of corpses.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJZJceGO5c4
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡasbkzYWOYV
"Do you think everyone else is fine?"262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOMVoRqIeto
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBJoGDqKUEL
"I don't know about the ones above, but the ones below are likely well. These two were exceptionally difficult."262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9Gcj7F1mS5
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOjusuvDlI6
"Huh? And what about Lola? She took on an entire Harbinger!"262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkmHbqFLN8g
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmHGVqXBa4r
Dave tilted his head and stuck his eyes to the ceiling.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡc0ZiwPQvfT
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrN6g5DaCWE
"She wouldn't falter so easily. Not in this situation. And I know, because we haven't seen that Harbinger's face yet."262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSaYVjzuZLi
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaY3wtCyrY3
"You raise a good point."262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9aUQIR6vjH
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDFMXrb2StY
"But, I must admit that you impressed me, Pars."262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsjSW2nN8oC
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡipBl2dwAVK
The sudden shift of topic caught Pars by surprise.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtQTW8HtpGj
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuT5eGH3c80
"H-Huh? Hold on, where's this coming from?"262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPQANf5uLZe
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtmEsCX6HXJ
"Nowhere but my sincerest thoughts. I didn't think you had it in you to abandon that charade."262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3GEm8jgwik
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡW6xRYVyFXl
"Ha, abandon?"262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQLxWJSlN1v
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwvAHnp7QOs
Pars' gaze sternly hardened.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjxi5Uh23on
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMAWz5uyXNF
"I didn't abandon anything. And this isn't a charade! I don't want to be a man who inspires just to get girls or something."262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXrljCUZzxj
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWujygXjs6R
"If you were, it was backfiring."262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKOhmeBVcuG
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQ4IiY9h6VA
"Harhar. Very funny."262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXUUKbMYS1L
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUiH5Rp6FTx
Pars rolled his eyes and continued speaking.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjfU5c69dGO
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoqsYZhebWP
"No. This? This wasn't working, you were right. But I can only give up so much of my attitude. Otherwise, the kids of this city will look at me as just another cranky soldier, and the members of our force won't have any beacons."262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡu9zaml2AAX
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgEOGFvCTt8
"Aren't you conceited."262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡroq5CS6789
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYer5751i52
"You think it's arrogance?"262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ0JLoB82kS
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡL0l1Hpm66X
Pars began to stroke his chin.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡburEEdtVdq
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2dGOxaZUVZ
"I don't see it that way. Greatness inspires, y'know?"262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxfmLyFkNJa
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6qsawVnSMu
"But what you want isn't just greatness."262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXPGGH0jOVJ
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkrdX7IfAmT
"...Yeah, you're right."262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡze7nqMVfCG
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeYL7ZdBXF7
Pars slacked his arms and stared blankly at the Bringers.262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXGfKhGO5Id
262Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0VqOuUiV0J
"I guess what I want, is to be a hero."
